If you need to lose weight, aim for a reduction of 5 to 10% of your current weight. It will improve your blood pressure and overall heart health. Make healthy food choices, shrink portions sizes, and get more active.

Check your belt size. If you are a woman, get your waist circumferences below 35 inches(88 cm), if you are a man, below 40 inches(102 cm).

Our mothers were right – an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Eat 7 to 10 servings of fruit and vegetables per day.

A journey begins with a single step. Aim for 10,000 steps per day(wearing a pedometer will help you keep track). Walk your dog for 30 minutes every day; even if you don’t have a dog.

“Take what you do seriously; don’t take yourself seriously” … find time each day for laughter, relaxation and reflection – perhaps while you’re walking that dog.

Alcohol is only good in moderation; 2 servings per day for men (max: 14 drinks/week) and 1 serving per day for women (max: 9 drinks/week)

You can pick your friends but not your relatives! Know your family heart history.